Ngaremlengui: The Pristine Heart of Palau

• HelloAlii
  [ah-lee]
• GoodbyeKmal mesulang
  [kem-al me-soo-lang]
• YesOu
  [oh]
• NoChelit
  [cheh-leet]
• Please/You're welcomeCherril a kemiu
  [cher-ril ah kem-yoo]
• Thank youMesulang
  [me-soo-lang]
• Excuse me/SorryUngil tutau
  [oon-geel too-tow]
• How are you?Chuabang ngarngii?
  [choo-ah-bahng ngar-nghee]
• Fine. And you?Meral ngii. E kemiu?
  [meh-rall nghee. eh kem-yoo]
• Do you speak English?Meiisiu a ngii ngarngii er a ngesechel?
  [may-see-oo ah nghee ngar-nghee er ah ngheh-seh-chell]
• I don't understandKmal meral ngii a ngarngii
  [kem-al meh-rall nghee ah ngar-nghee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseUnga chetuabang a ngai a lekang er a rengalek a chad er kemiu
  [oon-gah cheh-too-ah-bahng ah ngai ah leh-kahng er ah reng-ah-lehk ah chahd er kem-yoo]
• I don't eat meatChelit a ngai a dechil
  [cheh-leet ah ngai ah deh-cheel]
• Cheers!Ungil tutau!
  [oon-geel too-tow]
• I would like to pay, pleaseUnga chetuabang a ngai a kmal omerellel er kemiu
  [oon-gah cheh-too-ah-bahng ah ngai ah kem-al oh-meh-rel-lehl er kem-yoo]

• Help!Melechuch
  [meh-leh-chooch]
• Go away!Kmal mesulang
  [kem-al me-soo-lang]
• Call the Police!Mei a rur ngarngii
  [may ah roor ngar-nghee]
• Call a doctor!Mei a rur chad
  [may ah roor chahd]
• I'm lostChelit a ngai a bechesiich
  [cheh-leet ah ngai ah beh-cheh-see-ich]
• I'm illChelit a ngai a bechesiich
  [cheh-leet ah ngai ah beh-cheh-see-ich]

• I'd like to buy...Unga chetuabang a ngai a beluu...
  [oon-gah cheh-too-ah-bahng ah ngai ah beh-loo]
• I'm just lookingUnga chetuabang a ngai a meral ngii
  [oon-gah cheh-too-ah-bahng ah ngai ah meh-rall nghee]
• How much is it?Kmal bebil a kmal meral?
  [kem-al beh-beel ah kem-al meh-rall]
• That's too expensiveChelit a kmal betok
  [cheh-leet ah kem-al beh-tohk]
• Can you lower the price?Moiung a kmal betok
  [moh-yoong ah kem-al beh-tohk]

• What time is it?Kmal bebil a kmal ngelekel?
  [kem-al beh-beel ah kem-al ngel-ek-ell]
• It's one o'clockKmal ngelekel a kmal dirkakl
  [kem-al ngel-ek-ell ah kem-al deer-kah-kl]
• Half past (10)Kmal ngelekel a kmal dirkakl
  [kem-al ngel-ek-ell ah kem-al deer-kah-kl]
• MorningMereched a diel
  [meh-reh-ched ah dee-ell]
• AfternoonMereched a beluu
  [meh-reh-ched ah beh-loo]
• EveningMereched a beluu
  [meh-reh-ched ah beh-loo]
• YesterdayNgkora klalii
  [ngkoh-rah klah-lee]
• TodayA rur
  [ah roor]
• TomorrowNgkora klalii
  [ngkoh-rah klah-lee]
• 1Rechad
  [reh-chahd]
• 2Dirkakl
  [deer-kah-kl]
• 3Tilu
  [tee-loo]
• 4Esekum
  [eh-seh-koom]
• 5Klimakl
  [klee-mah-kl]
• 6Klukuk
  [kloo-kook]
• 7Kedam
  [keh-dahm]
• 8Kedilakl
  [keh-dee-lah-kl]
• 9Kedungur
  [keh-doong-oor]
• 10Kedungur
  [keh-doong-oor]

• Where's a/the...?Mei a kmal klechad?
  [may ah kem-al kleh-chahd]
• What's the address?Kmal bebil a olab a kmal klechad?
  [kem-al beh-beel ah oh-lahb ah kem-al kleh-chahd]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Moiung a klukuk a kmal klechad?
  [moh-yoong ah kloo-kook ah kem-al kleh-chahd]
• When's the next (bus)?Ngarngii a kmal klechad?
  [ngar-nghee ah kem-al kleh-chahd]
• A ticket (to ....)A ngerang a klukuk
  [ah ngeh-rahng ah kloo-kook]

Ngaremlengui, like much of Palau, was originally settled by Austronesian-speaking peoples. Evidence suggests that these early settlers arrived around 3,000 years ago, bringing with them the skills of navigation, fishing, and horticulture. They established small villages, practiced subsistence farming, and engaged in fishing, which remains a staple of the local diet to this day.

Ngaremlengui, like other states in Palau, was traditionally governed by a chieftain system. The highest title in the region is the 'Rengulbai', who played a crucial role in societal decision-making, conflict resolution, and maintaining peace and order. The traditional council of chiefs, known as the 'Rubekul Belau', continues to hold significant cultural importance.

In the early 20th century, Palau, including Ngaremlengui, came under Japanese administration following World War I. The Japanese influence is still visible in various aspects of local culture, from cuisine to infrastructure. During this period, significant developments were made in education and agriculture, although it was also a time marked by hardship and forced labor for many Palauans.

World War II had a profound impact on Ngaremlengui and the rest of Palau. The islands were strategically important and saw significant military action, particularly during the Battle of Peleliu. The war left behind numerous relics and historical sites, including bunkers and plane wrecks, which can still be explored today. The war also led to a shift in political dynamics, eventually paving the way for Palau's transition towards independence.

After World War II, Palau came under the administration of the United States as part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. Ngaremlengui, along with the rest of Palau, experienced significant changes during this period, including improvements in healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Palau eventually gained independence in 1994, becoming one of the world's youngest nations. Ngaremlengui's role in this journey highlights the resilience and determination of its people.

Ngaremlengui is known for its rich cultural heritage, which includes traditional dance, music, and art. Efforts to preserve and promote these cultural practices are evident in community events and educational programs. The Bai, a traditional meeting house, is a significant cultural landmark in Ngaremlengui. These structures are intricately decorated and serve as a testament to the region's artistic and architectural heritage.

Today, Ngaremlengui balances the preservation of its historical and cultural heritage with modern development. The area is known for its lush landscapes, including dense forests and pristine rivers, making it a popular destination for eco-tourism. The community continues to thrive, valuing both tradition and progress as it moves forward in the 21st century.

Ngaremlengui is located on the western side of Babeldaob, the largest island in Palau. The nearest international airport is Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR), located in Airai, approximately 35 kilometers from Ngaremlengui. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a shuttle service through your accommodation. The drive typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Alternatively, you can rent a car at the airport for more flexibility during your stay.

Ngaremlengui is a relatively small area, and many of its attractions are best explored by car. Car rentals are available at the airport and in Koror. Taxis are available but may be limited, so it is advisable to arrange transportation in advance. Public buses do not operate frequently in this area, so renting a car is the most convenient option for getting around. Bicycles can also be a fun way to explore the local scenery if you're up for some exercise.

The official currency of Palau is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments and more remote areas. ATMs are available in Koror, so it is recommended to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to Ngaremlengui.

Ngaremlengui is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facilities are located in Koror, which is about a 45-minute drive away. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Koror where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Additionally, keep the contact information of your embassy or consulate handy in case you need further assistance.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting villages and cultural sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting religious sites, dress conservatively and behave respectfully. Public Transport: Do be patient, as public transport can be infrequent. Don't expect Western-style punctuality. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Alii' (hello). A handshake is a common form of greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Ngaremlengui like a local, visit the traditional Bai (meeting houses) and engage with the community. Participate in local events and festivals to learn about Palauan culture and traditions. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area, including its lush forests and pristine rivers. For a unique experience, join a guided tour to learn about the local flora and fauna from knowledgeable guides.